NUS investigating student over alleged racist remarks in viral video, says conduct ‘not acceptable’
The National University of Singapore (NUS) is investigating a student after a video of her making alleged racist remarks circulated widely on social media.
Stomper T alerted Stomp to the clip, which has been shared on platforms including TikTok and Telegram.
The original video, which has since been deleted, is believed to have been posted in early April as part of a virtual self-introduction to hall mates.
In the clip, the student — who introduced herself as holding a leadership role in orientation activities — made a series of remarks referencing her past relationships and identity in a way that many viewers found offensive.
She also made comments that appeared to stereotype a particular ethnic group, including references to hygiene and personal habits, which were widely criticised online.
Video sparks backlash
“Y’all, my jaw dropped when those words came out of her mouth,” one TikTok user wrote.
“Did she genuinely think this was funny?” another asked.
Others expressed disbelief, with comments such as: “What is this?”
The student later posted an “apology” video in a Telegram channel, saying her remarks “may have offended a few people” and that “it was not my intention”.
“I know this is not an excuse, but at that point in time, I was going through something, and I turned it into a joke, which may have come across inappropriately,” she said.
However, the follow-up video was met with scepticism by some netizens, including Stomper T, who questioned its sincerity and called for accountability.
“She has shown no remorse,” he told Stomp.
The incident has also sparked calls for action online, with a petition urging NUS to take disciplinary measures. At the time of writing, the petition has garnered more than 680 verified signatures.
Student has stepped down from committee: NUS
In response to a Stomp query, NUS said it does not condone such behaviour.
“NUS is committed to the principles of respect and dignity,” an NUS spokesperson said in a statement on April 24.
“Clause 7 of the NUS Code of Student Conduct states that conduct which ‘insults, abuses, denigrates, victimises, demeans, embarrasses or disparages others’ is not acceptable to the University. Violations will be subject to disciplinary proceedings under NUS Statute 6.”
The university said it is currently investigating the case and will take “all necessary disciplinary action”.
“The student has stepped down from the student committee and is no longer residing on campus,” the spokesperson added.
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